by Kiley Roberson
Photos courtesy of Pete’s Pet Posse
At Oklahoma State University, stress relief might be just around the corner — literally. Whether it’s a friendly wag in the library during finals week or a furry face greeting you outside the Student Union, Pete’s Pet Posse (or P3) has become a beloved part of campus life. What started as a small pilot program in 2013 with just eight dogs has grown into a university-wide initiative with nearly 100 certified therapy dog teams serving multiple OSU campuses.
A Vision That Took Root in Stillwater
Pete’s Pet Posse began as the brainchild of former First Cowgirl Ann Hargis, who saw the potential for therapy animals to play a role in student wellness. The original pilot included eight dogs on the Stillwater campus. Since then, P3 has expanded to OSU-Tulsa, OSU Center for Health Sciences, the OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine at the Cherokee Nation and OSU-OKC.
Today, there are 90 therapy teams system-wide — 68 in Stillwater, 21 in Tulsa and one in Oklahoma City — making the program one of the largest university pet therapy initiatives in the nation.
From Application to “Barkalaureate”
Joining Pete’s Pet Posse is no small feat. Once a year, each campus opens its application window. Prospective teams undergo interviews, temperament evaluations and physical exams for the dogs. The process takes about two months just to reach acceptance and nearly a full year from application to official certification.
Training is rigorous — eight to 10 weeks of group instruction, weekly assignments, shadowing experienced teams, and earning both the Canine Good Citizen and Alliance of Therapy Dogs certifications. Only after completing all requirements do teams celebrate “Barkalaureate,” receiving their official P3 gear before beginning service.
“We try to match dogs and handlers with events that suit their personalities,” says Kendria Cost, director of the Ann Hargis OSU Center for Pet Therapy. “Some dogs thrive in high-energy events while others prefer quieter settings.”
A Measured Impact on Mental Wellness
The numbers speak for themselves. In 2023, P3 teams made 3,550 visits, providing more than 1,037 hours of therapy to over 67,000 people across OSU campuses. Research conducted by the program shows that:
- 99 percent of students feel welcomed at P3 events.
- 98 percent report feeling happier after petting a P3 dog.
- 96 percent believe the visits help alleviate stress.
But statistics tell only part of the story. Cost recalls one student, Ashley, whose journey with P3 went far beyond a few happy visits. Initially shy and struggling to find her place, Ashley connected with Charlie, Cost’s therapy dog, during her freshman year. Over time, she became a P3 Ruff Rider (student volunteer), joined multiple campus organizations and even spoke at a national conference about the program’s impact.
“She told us she wouldn’t have stayed in school without P3,” Cost says. “Now she’s married, working full time and thriving.”
Therapy in Action
During the academic year, P3 teams can be found at a variety of events from helping students de-stress during midterms to visiting faculty offices to boost workplace morale. Some of the most anticipated moments happen during finals week when therapy dogs set up in the library, testing center and other high-traffic areas.
While P3 operates year-round, certain special events have become traditions. On National Dog Day (Aug. 26), teams fan out across campus for themed activities. Last year, a group of Dachshund owners staged “Dachshund Through the Snow,” complete with photo ops for students.
P3’s presence even extends into OSU’s digital space. The Office of Student Success created a chatbot for incoming students, and instead of the typical school mascot, OSU’s version features Cowboy Charlie, one of P3’s pups.
A Bond That Builds Community
Part of what makes Pete’s Pet Posse so powerful is its ability to break down barriers. “Dogs give people a way to connect without the pressure of starting a conversation,” one undergraduate student noted in a 2023 survey. Another student wrote, “There always seems to be a dog around the corner when I’m stressed out.” Parents have even weighed in, too, with one sharing, “This program is one of the main reasons I wanted my child to come to OSU!”
Cost agrees that therapy dogs offer something uniquely effective: “They radiate positive energy. Even if you’re just walking by, you feel it.”
How to Support Pete’s Pet Posse
P3 is entirely self-funded, relying on donations to cover training, gear and program expenses. Supporters can contribute through the OSU Foundation, and volunteer opportunities are available for those willing to go through the extensive training process. Information and donation links are available on the program’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/petespetposse.
Looking Ahead
As Pete’s Pet Posse moves into its second decade, its influence continues to grow. The program is not just about stress relief; it’s about creating a sense of belonging, supporting mental health and building a more connected campus community.
“Whether it’s helping a freshman adjust, supporting staff during a tough week or giving someone a reason to smile between classes, our dogs and handlers are here to serve,” Cost says. “And the best part? The dogs love it as much as the people do.”
